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Bucs vs Falcons: 4 keys to a Bucs victory in Week 1

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Football is finally back and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are suiting up to face the Atlanta Falcons and officially start their regular season this afternoon. The Bucs swept the Falcons in 2015 and are hoping to do the same again this season. But in order to do so, the team will need to address a few things first. With that being said, here are 4 keys to a Bucs victory in Week 1:

#1 . Stop the run game and contain Julio Jones

Julio Jones is arguably one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. He has a knack for making big plays and being a disruptive force on the field. Therefore, the Bucs defense will need to find ways to stop him as well as Falcons’ running back Devonta Freeman. In addition, since Matt Ryan and Julio Jones make up one of the NFL’s most prolific passing combinations in the NFL, the squad will need to contain the two by being fast, aggressive, and utilizing their coverage and ball skills.

#2. Pressure Matt Ryan

The Bucs need to disrupt Atlanta’s passing game and force their way in the backfield and pressure Falcons’ quarterback Matt Ryan. It also wouldn’t hurt to snag a pick or two either.

#3. Get off to a fast start

Coach Koetter has emphasized the importance of Jameis Winston and the Bucs’ offense getting off to a fast start early on. The team will need to speed up the tempo and find a good rhythm early in the game to challenge Atlanta and wear the Falcons’ defense down early.

#4. Special teams must excel

It’s no secret that Roberto Aguayo has struggled a bit this preseason. Fortunately, it looks like he’s bounced back and redeemed himself. He appears to have found the confidence he needed after performing exceptionally well the last two preseason games. However, the question is: can he succeed in his first regular season game? This is a huge divisional road game therefore, the pressure is certainly on. In order for the Bucs to be successful, Aguayo needs to make his extra points and field goal attempts.

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